University Place, Washington is quietly becoming one of the most promising employment hubs in Pierce County. With its strong education system, expanding healthcare sector, proximity to Tacoma, and growing local businesses, job seekers are discovering stable careers, competitive salaries, and work-life balance here in jobs in university place WA.
Whether you’re a student, fresh graduate, skilled professional, or someone planning a career shift, University Place offers diverse job opportunities across multiple industries. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best jobs in University Place, WA, hiring sectors, salary insights, and how to secure employment fast in jobs in university place WA.
Key Takeaways
- University Place offers strong job growth in education, healthcare, retail, and administration
- Government and school district jobs provide long-term stability & benefits
- Entry-level to high-paying professional roles are widely available
- Local employers prefer skill-based hiring over degrees
- Proximity to Tacoma expands career options without long commutes

Why University Place, WA Is a Growing Job Market
University Place combines suburban comfort with urban employment access. Located just minutes from Tacoma, it benefits from regional economic development while maintaining a lower competition job market.
Key advantages of working in University Place:
- Strong public institutions and schools
- Growing healthcare facilities
- Locally owned businesses hiring year-round
- Safer neighborhoods and better work-life balance
- Consistent demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers
Top Hiring Industries in University Place, WA
Education & School District Jobs
University Place School District is one of the largest employers in the area.
Popular roles include:
- Teachers (Elementary & Secondary)
- Teaching Assistants
- Special Education Coordinators
- Administrative Staff
- School Counselors
- IT Support for schools
Why choose education jobs?
- Job security
- Fixed schedules
- Retirement & healthcare benefits
Healthcare & Medical Jobs
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors in University Place.
In-demand positions:
- Registered Nurses (RN)
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
- Medical Receptionists
- Physical Therapists
- Home Health Aides
- Medical Billing & Coding Specialists
Healthcare employers prefer certifications and experience, making it ideal for quick career entry.
Retail & Customer Service Jobs
Retail provides consistent employment, especially for students and part-time workers.
Common job roles:
- Sales Associates
- Store Managers
- Cashiers
- Customer Support Representatives
- Inventory Coordinators
These jobs offer flexible shifts, ideal for work-study balance.
Government & Public Sector Jobs
City and county offices offer stable, long-term employment.
Available roles:
- Office Assistants
- City Clerks
- Public Works Employees
- Maintenance Technicians
- Community Program Coordinators
Government jobs are highly respected due to benefits, pensions, and predictable growth.
Administrative & Office Jobs
Administrative professionals are always in demand across healthcare, schools, and private offices.
Popular roles include:
- Office Administrators
- Executive Assistants
- Data Entry Operators
- HR Assistants
- Front Desk Coordinators
Strong communication and computer skills are key.
Entry-Level Jobs in University Place, WA (No Experience Required)
Not everyone starts with experience—and University Place employers understand that.
Best entry-level options:
- Retail Associates
- Food Service Workers
- Office Assistants
- Caregivers
- Warehouse Helpers
- Delivery Drivers
Many of these roles offer on-the-job training and career progression.
High-Paying Jobs in University Place, WA
For experienced professionals, several roles offer above-average salaries.
Top paying positions:
- Registered Nurses
- School Administrators
- IT Support Specialists
- Construction Project Supervisors
- Financial Analysts
- Licensed Electricians & Plumbers
Skilled trades and healthcare dominate the high-salary segment.
Part-Time & Student Jobs in University Place
University Place is student-friendly, with flexible opportunities.
Ideal student jobs:
- Library Assistants
- Tutors
- Baristas
- Retail Cashiers
- Campus Support Staff
These jobs allow students to earn while studying.
Remote & Hybrid Job Opportunities
While University Place focuses on local employment, remote work is rising.
Remote-friendly roles include:
- Customer Support Agents
- Digital Marketers
- Virtual Assistants
- Content Writers
- Data Analysts
Many residents work remotely while enjoying suburban living.
How to Find Jobs in University Place, WA Faster
Best job search strategies:
- Apply through local school district portals
- Check city and county job boards
- Use local staffing agencies
- Network with community groups
- Walk-in applications for retail & healthcare
Employers value local availability and reliability.
Skills Employers in University Place Value Most
- Communication skills
- Customer service experience
- Basic computer knowledge
- Certifications (healthcare & trades)
- Time management
- Problem-solving abilities
Soft skills often matter more than degrees.
Cost of Living vs Job Opportunities
Compared to Seattle, University Place offers:
- Lower housing costs
- Shorter commute times
- Better quality of life
This makes it a smart place to build a career without high stress.
Future Job Growth Outlook in University Place
The employment market is expected to grow due to:
- Population growth
- Healthcare expansion
- Educational investments
- Infrastructure development
This means more jobs and higher wages in coming years.
Conclusion: Is University Place, WA a Good Place to Work?
Absolutely. University Place offers career stability, diverse job options, and a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing professionally, the city provides real opportunities without big-city pressure.
If you’re serious about finding a job that offers growth, security, and peace of mind, University Place, WA deserves your attention.
FAQs
What are the most common jobs in University Place, WA?
Education, healthcare, retail, administration, and government jobs are the most common.
Are there jobs for freshers in University Place?
Yes, many entry-level and no-experience jobs are available in retail, healthcare support, and offices.
What is the average salary in University Place, WA?
Salaries vary by role, but healthcare and education jobs offer competitive pay with benefits.
Is University Place good for part-time jobs?
Yes, it is ideal for students and part-time workers due to flexible shifts.
How can I apply for government jobs in University Place?
You can apply through city, county, and school district official portals.